Abstract
Background
As stated by the CDC, sickle cell disease (SCD) affects an estimated 100,000 people in the United States. This genetic blood disorder can lead to several life-long health problems and reduced life expectancy. Individuals with SCD face many systemic barriers to care, such as structural racism, given that over 90% of persons with SCD are people of color. Despite this, the connection between racism and SCD is often not made. This project was conducted to understand the impact that racism and disparities can have on SCD care.Methods
The project was informed by a literature review utilizing phrases relevant to SCD and racism in health care, such as “sickle cell disease”, “health disparities” and “barriers to care”. The literature review was conducted via various online databases such as PubMed and the University of Michigan Library Database.Results
People with SCD face barriers in almost every aspect of healthcare. Individuals suffer from the stigmatization of pain, low rates of preventive care, high hospital readmission rates, mistrust and provider bias, and low quality and limited access to care.Conclusion
SCD is a condition that affects all aspects of life, and the added racial and healthcare disparities make it difficult to access equitable and trusting care that individuals with SCD deserve. Understanding health care utilization of those living with SCD and collaborating with the community is important in identifying gaps in treatment within the healthcare system and reducing barriers to care.Categories: Conference Abstracts/Posters